Welsh Government Abandons Gender Quota Plan

The Welsh Government has officially abandoned its plans to implement gender quotas requiring political parties to ensure at least 50% of candidates in the 2026 Senedd elections are women. Originally proposed under former First Minister Mark Drakeford, concerns regarding the legal authority of the Senedd to enforce such quotas and potential legal challenges played a significant role in the decision, which was confirmed by Social Justice Secretary Jane Hutt. The government remains committed to achieving gender balance and will instead focus on providing voluntary guidance to political parties on diversity and inclusion. This decision comes as part of broader reforms that include expanding the Senedd from 60 to 96 members. The withdrawal of the bill has drawn criticism from some opposition parties, particularly Plaid Cymru, who argue that stronger measures are necessary for achieving gender parity. A motion to officially withdraw the bill will be debated by Members of the Senedd on September 24.